2022 Jeep Compass vs 2022 Acura MDX

The 2022 Acura MDX was a standout in the three-row luxury crossover SUV category, offering a modern and assertive exterior design. Built on a new dedicated platform, the MDX featured a longer wheelbase, wider body, and an increased dash-to-axle distance, enhancing its elegant appearance. The Jewel Eye LED headlights and larger wheels contributed to its sporty look. Inside, the MDX boasted a spacious cabin with a layered dashboard, authentic materials, and a unique gear selection system. The 12.3-inch infotainment screen, although not a touchscreen, was strategically placed for safety. The MDX's interior was both comfortable and luxurious, with a variety of colour options for both the exterior and interior.

In contrast, the 2022 Jeep Compass maintained a familiar exterior design with some updates, resembling a smaller Grand Cherokee. The Trailhawk Elite specification elevated its premium feel with a new dashboard design, luxury-grade leather seats, and added sound deadening. The Compass lineup offered various trims, with the Trailhawk Elite being the most expensive. Despite its compact size, the Compass provided a sophisticated interior with features like a dual-pane panoramic sunroof and a redesigned dashboard. The Compass was built in Toluca, Mexico, and offered a range of prices depending on the trim and options selected.

The 2022 Acura MDX was powered by a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 engine, producing 290 horsepower and 267 lb-ft of torque. It featured a new 10-speed automatic transmission and Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), which was standard in Canada. The SH-AWD system allowed for torque vectoring, enhancing cornering feel and control. The MDX's suspension was upgraded to a double-wishbone setup in the front and a revised multi-link suspension in the rear, improving ride quality and handling. The vehicle's overall stiffness and rigidity were significantly improved, providing a solid ride feel. The MDX offered five drive modes, allowing drivers to tailor the vehicle's performance to their preferences.

The 2022 Jeep Compass was equipped with a 2.4-litre four-cylinder engine, delivering 177 horsepower and 172 lb-ft of torque. The engine, known as the "Tigershark," was paired with a nine-speed automatic transmission for 4WD models, while FWD models had a six-speed automatic. The Compass's powertrain was less impressive, with a busy and unrewarding character. The automatic stop/start system was slow to re-engage, and the drivetrain exhibited hard engagement. The Compass offered Jeep Selec-Terrain with Auto, Snow, and Sand/Mud driving modes, and the AWD system could send power to the rear wheels when needed. The Compass Trailhawk was capable off-road, with features like a low range and hill descent control.

The 2022 Acura MDX excelled in versatility, offering comfortable seating for the first two rows and a flexible second row with a removable centre section. The third row was best suited for smaller passengers, but the MDX provided ample cargo space with up to 2,690 litres available when the second and third rows were folded. The power tailgate featured a "Walk Away Close" function and hands-free access. Interior lighting was customizable with 27 themes, enhancing the cabin's ambiance.

The 2022 Jeep Compass, while smaller, offered a spacious interior for four adults and their luggage. The Trailhawk Elite trim featured 12-way power-adjustable front seats with heating and ventilation, a heated steering wheel, and heated rear seats. The redesigned dashboard and Uconnect 5 infotainment system improved perceived quality. The Compass provided 770 litres of cargo space behind the rear seat, expanding to 1,693 litres with the rear seat folded. A hands-free power liftgate was available for added convenience.

The 2022 Acura MDX was equipped with advanced technology, including the ELS Studio 3D Premium Audio System with 16 speakers and 710 watts of amplification. The 12.3-inch infotainment system and Acura Precision Cockpit digital instrument panel were standard, along with Amazon Alexa integration, wireless Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. The MDX also featured a head-up display, HD rearview camera, and a WiFi hotspot.

The 2022 Jeep Compass featured the new Uconnect 5 infotainment system, which was faster and more responsive than its predecessor. An 8.4-inch touchscreen was standard, with a 10.1-inch option available. The system supported wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and over-the-air updates. The Compass offered a navigation system, connected services, and a nine-speaker Alpine premium sound system. Voice recognition was generally effective, though it had some limitations in specific scenarios.

The 2022 Acura MDX received a "Top Safety Pick +" rating from the IIHS, with top marks in every category. It was engineered with a higher percentage of high-strength steel and featured an advanced safety structure. The MDX included a low-speed braking control system and the AcuraWatch suite of safety features, such as collision mitigation emergency braking, adaptive cruise control, and blind spot monitoring.

The 2022 Jeep Compass improved its safety features, with forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping assistance available from the Trailhawk grade. Highway Assist was expected to be added later in the model year. The Compass's adaptive cruise control and lane-keeping systems were generally effective, though some issues were noted. The NHTSA rollover resistance rating was three stars, and improvements were needed for headlight performance.